The Elusive Best in Show Title: Breeds That Have Never Won at Westminster

The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show is one of the most prestigious canine events in the world, attracting top breeders, owners, and dogs from around the globe. With over 200 breeds competing for the coveted Best in Show title, the competition is fierce. While many breeds have taken home the top prize, there are some that have never achieved this honor. In this article, we will explore the breeds that have never won Best in Show at Westminster, examining the possible reasons behind their lack of success and highlighting their unique characteristics.

A Brief History of the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show

Before diving into the breeds that have never won Best in Show, it’s essential to understand the history and significance of the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. Established in 1877, the show is one of the oldest and most respected dog shows in the world. The first show was held at Gilmore’s Garden in New York City, with 35 breeds and 1,200 dogs participating. Over the years, the show has grown in size and popularity, with the 2020 event featuring over 2,600 dogs from 204 breeds.

Breeds That Have Never Won Best in Show

While many breeds have won the Best in Show title at Westminster, there are some that have never achieved this honor. These breeds come from various groups, including Sporting, Hound, Working, Terrier, Toy, and Non-Sporting. Here are some of the breeds that have never won Best in Show:

Sporting Breeds

• American Water Spaniel: This breed is known for its curly or wavy coat and is a versatile hunting dog. Despite its excellent hunting abilities, the American Water Spaniel has never won Best in Show at Westminster.
• Barbet: A French breed, the Barbet is a medium-sized dog with a distinctive beard-like facial hair. Its friendly and outgoing personality has not been enough to secure a Best in Show title.
• Lagotto Romagnolo: This Italian breed is known for its distinctive curly coat and is often used for truffle hunting. Despite its unique characteristics, the Lagotto Romagnolo has never won Best in Show.

Hound Breeds

• American Foxhound: This breed is known for its speed and agility, making it an excellent hunting dog. However, its lack of show ring presence has prevented it from winning Best in Show.
• Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen: This French breed is known for its distinctive mustache-like facial hair and is a skilled hunting dog. Despite its excellent hunting abilities, the Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen has never won Best in Show.
• Norwegian Elkhound: This breed is known for its distinctive gray coat and is a skilled hunting dog. However, its lack of show ring presence has prevented it from winning Best in Show.

Working Breeds

• Akita: This Japanese breed is known for its distinctive coat and is a loyal companion dog. Despite its excellent temperament, the Akita has never won Best in Show at Westminster.
• Cane Corso: This Italian breed is known for its distinctive coat and is a skilled guard dog. However, its lack of show ring presence has prevented it from winning Best in Show.
• Dogue de Bordeaux: This French breed is known for its distinctive red coat and is a skilled guard dog. Despite its excellent temperament, the Dogue de Bordeaux has never won Best in Show.

Terrier Breeds

• American Hairless Terrier: This breed is known for its unique hairless coat and is a friendly and outgoing dog. However, its lack of show ring presence has prevented it from winning Best in Show.
• Glen of Imaal Terrier: This Irish breed is known for its distinctive beard-like facial hair and is a skilled hunting dog. Despite its excellent hunting abilities, the Glen of Imaal Terrier has never won Best in Show.
• Miniature Bull Terrier: This breed is known for its distinctive egg-shaped head and is a friendly and outgoing dog. However, its lack of show ring presence has prevented it from winning Best in Show.

Toy Breeds

• English Toy Spaniel: This breed is known for its distinctive flat face and is a friendly and outgoing dog. However, its lack of show ring presence has prevented it from winning Best in Show.
• Havanese: This Cuban breed is known for its distinctive silky coat and is a friendly and outgoing dog. Despite its excellent temperament, the Havanese has never won Best in Show.
• Japanese Chin: This breed is known for its distinctive flat face and is a friendly and outgoing dog. However, its lack of show ring presence has prevented it from winning Best in Show.

Non-Sporting Breeds

• Bichon Frise: This breed is known for its distinctive curly coat and is a friendly and outgoing dog. However, its lack of show ring presence has prevented it from winning Best in Show.
• Chinese Shar-Pei: This breed is known for its distinctive wrinkled coat and is a loyal companion dog. Despite its excellent temperament, the Chinese Shar-Pei has never won Best in Show.
• Xoloitzcuintli (Mexican Hairless Dog): This breed is known for its unique hairless coat and is a friendly and outgoing dog. However, its lack of show ring presence has prevented it from winning Best in Show.

Reasons for Lack of Success

There are several reasons why these breeds have never won Best in Show at Westminster. One reason is the lack of show ring presence. Some breeds, such as the American Water Spaniel and the Norwegian Elkhound, are bred for their hunting abilities rather than their show ring presence. As a result, they may not have the same level of grooming and training as other breeds.

Another reason is the competition from more popular breeds. Breeds like the Labrador Retriever and the German Shepherd are consistently popular and have a strong following among breeders and owners. As a result, they may have an advantage in the show ring.

Finally, some breeds may not have the same level of recognition or respect as other breeds. For example, the Lagotto Romagnolo is a relatively new breed to the United States, and as a result, it may not have the same level of recognition as other breeds.

Conclusion

While many breeds have won the Best in Show title at Westminster, there are some that have never achieved this honor. These breeds come from various groups and have unique characteristics that make them special. While there are several reasons why these breeds have never won Best in Show, it’s essential to recognize their value and importance in the world of dogs.

By highlighting these breeds, we hope to raise awareness and appreciation for their unique characteristics and abilities. Whether or not they win Best in Show, these breeds are still worthy of recognition and respect.

Table: Breeds That Have Never Won Best in Show at Westminster

Call to Action

If you’re a dog owner or breeder, we encourage you to learn more about these breeds and their unique characteristics. By raising awareness and appreciation for these breeds, we can work together to promote their value and importance in the world of dogs.

Whether you’re a seasoned dog show enthusiast or just starting to learn about the world of dogs, we hope this article has provided you with valuable information and insights. Remember, every breed is special and deserving of recognition and respect.

What is the Westminster Dog Show, and why is the Best in Show title so prestigious?

The Westminster Dog Show is one of the most renowned dog shows in the world, held annually by the Westminster Kennel Club in New York City. The show attracts top breeders and their dogs from around the globe, competing for the coveted Best in Show title. This title is considered the pinnacle of achievement in the dog show world, as it represents the ultimate recognition of a dog’s excellence in its breed and overall quality.

The prestige of the Best in Show title lies in the rigorous judging process, which evaluates dogs based on their breed standards, movement, temperament, and overall condition. The competition is fierce, with hundreds of dogs from over 200 breeds vying for the top spot. Winning Best in Show at Westminster is a career-defining moment for breeders and handlers, and it can significantly impact the reputation and value of their breeding program.

Which breeds have never won the Best in Show title at Westminster?

Despite the large number of breeds that participate in the Westminster Dog Show, there are several breeds that have never won the Best in Show title. Some of these breeds include the Norwegian Lundehund, the Peruvian Inca Orchid, the Phu Quoc Ridgeback, and the Swedish Vallhund. These breeds are relatively rare or newly recognized, which may contribute to their lack of representation in the Best in Show winner’s circle.

However, it’s essential to note that the absence of a Best in Show win does not diminish the quality or excellence of these breeds. Many of these breeds have won awards and accolades in their respective groups or at other dog shows, demonstrating their value and worth as beloved companions and working dogs.

What factors contribute to a breed’s chances of winning Best in Show at Westminster?

Several factors can influence a breed’s chances of winning Best in Show at Westminster. One key factor is the breed’s popularity and recognition within the dog show community. Breeds with a strong following and a large number of entries tend to have a higher chance of winning. Additionally, breeds with a well-established breed standard and a clear understanding of their characteristics and traits are more likely to impress judges.

Another crucial factor is the quality of the dogs being shown. Breeds with a strong breeding program, careful selection, and rigorous training tend to produce dogs that excel in the show ring. The handler’s experience and skill also play a significant role, as they must be able to showcase the dog’s best features and characteristics to the judges.

Can a breed’s rarity or novelty impact its chances of winning Best in Show?

Yes, a breed’s rarity or novelty can indeed impact its chances of winning Best in Show at Westminster. Judges may be more inclined to recognize a breed that is less common or has a unique characteristic, as it can add diversity and interest to the competition. However, this can also work against a breed, as judges may be less familiar with its breed standard and characteristics.

In some cases, a breed’s rarity or novelty can lead to a ” sympathy vote” or a desire to recognize the breed’s uniqueness. However, this is not always the case, and judges are expected to evaluate dogs based on their adherence to the breed standard and overall quality, rather than their rarity or novelty.

How do judges evaluate dogs at the Westminster Dog Show?

Judges at the Westminster Dog Show evaluate dogs based on their breed standard, which is a detailed description of the breed’s characteristics, temperament, and physical attributes. Judges assess each dog’s movement, structure, coat, and overall condition, as well as its temperament and behavior in the show ring. They also consider the dog’s breed-specific characteristics, such as its head shape, ear set, and tail carriage.

Judges use a combination of visual evaluation and hands-on examination to assess each dog. They may ask handlers to move their dogs around the ring, perform specific actions, or stand their dogs for examination. The judges’ goal is to identify the dog that best represents its breed and demonstrates the highest level of quality, movement, and overall excellence.

Can a breed’s performance in other dog shows impact its chances of winning at Westminster?

Yes, a breed’s performance in other dog shows can impact its chances of winning at Westminster. A breed that has performed well in other shows, particularly those sanctioned by the American Kennel Club (AKC), may have an advantage at Westminster. Judges may be more familiar with the breed’s characteristics and quality, and the breed may have established a reputation for excellence.

Additionally, a breed’s success in other shows can attract more attention and interest from breeders, handlers, and judges, which can lead to increased entries and a stronger presence at Westminster. However, it’s essential to note that each show is a separate competition, and a breed’s performance at one show does not guarantee success at another.

What can breeders and handlers do to improve their breed’s chances of winning at Westminster?

Breeders and handlers can take several steps to improve their breed’s chances of winning at Westminster. One key strategy is to focus on breeding dogs that excel in their breed standard, with careful selection and rigorous training. They should also prioritize the dog’s overall health, temperament, and movement, as these are essential characteristics that judges evaluate.

Additionally, breeders and handlers should gain experience and exposure in the show ring, participating in local and national shows to develop their skills and build their reputation. They should also network with other breeders, handlers, and judges to learn more about the breed standard and the judging process. By combining these efforts, breeders and handlers can increase their breed’s visibility and competitiveness at Westminster.